Local Leaders Network | The Guardianhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network
Latest Local Leaders Network news, comment and analysis from the Guardian, the world's leading liberal voiceen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015Sun, 02 Aug 2015 21:06:25 GMT2015-08-02T21:06:25Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015The Guardianhttp://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttp://www.theguardian.com
Why local elections are more important than the Farage-dominated EU votehttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/may/20/euro-vote-important-vital-vote-local-elections-tony-travers
Councils are now more important to us than either Brussels or Westminster. LSE professor <strong>Tony Travers</strong> explains why<br />•<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/may/19/local-elections-in-numbers-nine-facts"> Local elections in numbers: nine facts</a><p>The turnout in this week's elections will no doubt be higher in areas where European and local elections take place alongside one another .</p><p>In 1999, when the European Parliament was elected on a day with no other voting, the turnout was 24%. By contrast, turnout at local elections is typically around 35%.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/may/20/euro-vote-important-vital-vote-local-elections-tony-travers">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogService deliveryPublic healthPlanningLocal government careersLocal governmentFinanceLocal governmentLocal governmentTue, 20 May 2014 09:11:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/may/20/euro-vote-important-vital-vote-local-elections-tony-traversREX/REX/Cartel/Tom PullenUkip's Nigel Farage hopes to gain seats at the European eleciton vote which takes place on the same day as local elections. Photograph: REX/REX/Cartel/Tom PullenREX/REX/Cartel/Tom PullenUkip's Nigel Farage hopes to gain seats at the European eleciton vote which takes place on the same day as local elections. Photograph: REX/REX/Cartel/Tom PullenTony Travers2014-05-20T09:11:00ZLondon assembly calls for right-to-buy suspensionhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/oct/08/right-to-buy-suspension-london-assembly
New report calls for greater protections to prevent council homes becoming buy-to-let properties<p>As you read this article, thousands of families are engaged in the nervous wait for social housing. There are currently more than 380,000 households on local authority waiting lists in the capital – and the number is growing every day.</p><p>That's why my colleagues and I on the Assembly's housing committee have been investigating what the mayor and government can do to get London building council houses. We questioned local authorities, housing associations and charities and looked at the barriers stopping councils from building homes for low-income families.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/oct/08/right-to-buy-suspension-london-assembly">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogHousing NetworkHousing network blogLondonLocal governmentPoliticsUK newsSocietyHousingCommunitiesPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsTue, 08 Oct 2013 15:21:13 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/oct/08/right-to-buy-suspension-london-assemblyFrank Baron/GuardianLondon councils should be given a ‘right-not-to-sell’ which can be used to prevent right-to-buy purchases.
Photograph: Frank Baron for the GuardianFrank Baron/GuardianLondon councils should be given a ‘right-not-to-sell’ which can be used to prevent right-to-buy purchases.
Photograph: Frank Baron for the GuardianDarren Johnson2013-10-08T15:21:13ZJoanna Killian: 'I'm grateful I fell into local government'http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/sep/03/joanna-killian-grateful-local-government
From temporary housing officer in Redbridge in the 1980s to the chief executive of Essex county council<p>I'd like to say that I had a strong, well-executed career plan that saw me enter the formidable world of local government, but that was not the case. After a spell with an investment bank and a period of travelling, I found myself staring at the temporary jobs column in the East London Advertiser.</p><p>This was the late 1980s, and the city was in a state so Redbridge council's role of a temporary housing officer seemed like a worthy thing to do. It would make my social geography professor feel like he'd done a worthwhile job too.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/sep/03/joanna-killian-grateful-local-government">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogLocal government careersLocal leadershipHousing NetworkLondonPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsTue, 03 Sep 2013 06:59:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/sep/03/joanna-killian-grateful-local-governmentRod Kirkpatrick/F Stop PressAs housing officer Joanna Killian had a passion for helping council tenants escape the oppression of overcrowding and homeless hostels. Photograph: Rod Kirkpatrick/F Stop PressRod Kirkpatrick/F Stop PressAs housing officer Joanna Killian had a passion for helping council tenants escape the oppression of overcrowding and homeless hostels. Photograph: Rod Kirkpatrick/F Stop PressJoanna Killian2013-09-03T06:59:00ZBoris Johnson's fire brigade cuts extend response times and put lives in dangerhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/sep/02/boris-johnsons-fire-brigade-cuts-danger
London boroughs are uniting to appeal to Eric Pickles to revoke plans to close 10 fire stations and scrap 552 firefighter jobs<p>Boris Johnson announced some of the <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-23576397" title="">biggest changes to the London Fire Brigade</a> in living memory earlier this year. His plans will see the closure of 10 fire stations, the withdrawal of 14 fire engines and the scrapping of 552 firefighter jobs. This will leave four million Londoners waiting longer for a fire engine in the event of an emergency.</p><p>In my borough of Islington, we've been hit hard by these proposals and are facing the prospect of losing two stations that serve the area – Clerkenwell in the south and Kingsland in the east. These stations are hugely important to the safety of residents and their loss will greatly threaten the lives of local people.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/sep/02/boris-johnsons-fire-brigade-cuts-danger">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogFrontlinePublic service reformPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsMon, 02 Sep 2013 11:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/sep/02/boris-johnsons-fire-brigade-cuts-dangerShaun Curry/AFP/Getty ImagesThe mayor's fire brigade cuts package 'will leave four million Londoners waiting longer for a fire engine'. Photograph: Shaun Curry/AFP/Getty ImagesShaun Curry/AFP/Getty ImagesThe mayor's fire brigade cuts package 'will leave four million Londoners waiting longer for a fire engine'. Photograph: Shaun Curry/AFP/Getty ImagesCatherine West2013-09-02T11:00:00ZHow to succeed in local government: stop thinking like local governmenthttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/editors-blog/2013/aug/23/succeed-local-government-stop-thinking
Ministers want to see innovation and entrepreneurism, traits not commonly associated with council staff<p>Birmingham city council is in trouble. It's financial situation, already precarious, worsened last year after 170 former employees <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/society/2012/oct/24/women-birmingham-council-pay-court" title="">won an equal pay claim</a>, leaving the council with a huge staffing bill to settle.</p><p>Now Birmingham leader Sir Albert Bore has sent an open letter to the government warning that its financial position is even worse than he had first feared. Cuts to government grant now leave the authority needing to find savings of &pound;825m by 2018 – a step too far for the council to take.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/editors-blog/2013/aug/23/succeed-local-government-stop-thinking">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogFinanceLocal governmentSocietyPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsFri, 23 Aug 2013 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/editors-blog/2013/aug/23/succeed-local-government-stop-thinkingFatih Saribas/REUTERSCouncils must learn to think differently in order to remain financially sustainable. Photograph: Fatih Saribas/REUTERSFatih Saribas/REUTERSCouncils must learn to think differently in order to remain financially sustainable. Photograph: Fatih Saribas/REUTERSHannah Fearn2013-08-23T07:00:00ZFour ways that 'smart' councils are using technology to regenerate areashttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/20/councils-technology-regenerate-local-area
From energy self-sufficiency to open data collaboration: meet the ambitious local authorities pioneering digital innovation<p>Ambitious councils in the UK are taking the lead on what is known as &quot;smart&quot; innovation. This is when authorities use new technologies to regenerate local areas and grow their economies. From digital incubators to energy self-sufficiency, I want to share with you some of the most interesting council-led schemes I have come across.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/20/councils-technology-regenerate-local-area">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogLocal governmentSocietyPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsTue, 20 Aug 2013 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/20/councils-technology-regenerate-local-areaRoger Coulam/AlamyWearmouth bridge in Sunderland. Sunderland council offers support to encourage tech companies to the city.
Photograph: Roger Coulam/AlamyRoger Coulam/AlamyWearmouth bridge in Sunderland. Sunderland council offers support to encourage tech companies to the city.
Photograph: Roger Coulam/AlamyJane Johnston2013-08-20T07:00:00ZPublic health: cutting a deal on the minimum price of alcoholhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/19/public-health-minimum-alcohol-pricing
Ministers have abandoned a major public health commitment, but this is no time for local government to walk away<p>The fallout from the government u-turn on plain cigarette packaging and a minimum unit price for alcohol continues. To date, the Faculty of Public Health, the Association of Directors of Public Health and Birmingham city council have all withdrawn from the &quot;<a href="https://responsibilitydeal.dh.gov.uk/" title="">public health responsibility deal</a>&quot;. This &quot;framework of trust and expectation&quot; between the government, public sector and businesses, first launched in March 2011, includes a number of pledges across several public health issues. I would suggest these pledges were offered as much to ward off punitive legislation as in an effort to promote the wider public good.</p><p>The chief medical officer, Prof Dame Sally Davies, has remained mute on the matter, despite drawing attention last year to an epidemic of premature liver failure in women, fuelled in large part by alcohol consumption. Public Health England, the government's flagship leadership organisation for public health, has expressed its &quot;disappointment&quot; – a euphemism that probably says less about a failure to satisfy hopes, desires and expectations and more about the humbling experience of having been simply ignored.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/19/public-health-minimum-alcohol-pricing">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogPublic healthPublic healthPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsMon, 19 Aug 2013 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/19/public-health-minimum-alcohol-pricingChris Rout / Alamy/AlamyBrighton & Hove council has a complex relationship with alcohol: it poses public health risks but businesses rely on the night-time economy. Photograph: Chris Rout/AlamyChris Rout / Alamy/AlamyBrighton & Hove council has a complex relationship with alcohol: it poses public health risks but businesses rely on the night-time economy. Photograph: Chris Rout/AlamyTom Scanlon2013-08-19T07:00:00ZEnormous local government debt a 'timebomb' for Chinahttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/09/chinese-local-government-debt-timebomb
Detroit filed for bankruptcy with debts of $180bn, but this is the average amount of debt for many Chinese cities<p>In <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2011/07/06/chinas-debt-monster/chinas-debt-is-a-time-bomb" title="">a debate published by the New York Times in 2011</a> I argued that China's local government debts were a timebomb. At that time, China's national audit office reported that 36 selected cities each owed an average of $174bn (&pound;110bn). By comparison, Detroit was forced to file for bankruptcy when its debts reached $180bn.</p><p>Other commentators in the debate were more optimistic, but since then China's local government debts have worsened, causing increased concern as the country's economic growth slows.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/09/chinese-local-government-debt-timebomb">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogFinanceCitiesLocal governmentSocietyPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsFri, 09 Aug 2013 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/09/chinese-local-government-debt-timebombDon Mcphee/GuardianExtravagant spending on luxury offices and residential buildings for officials has fuelled local government debt in China. Photograph: Don McPhee for the GuardianDon Mcphee/GuardianExtravagant spending on luxury offices and residential buildings for officials has fuelled local government debt in China. Photograph: Don McPhee for the GuardianLina Song2013-08-09T07:00:00ZDevolution of power to local authorities 'way behind the rest of the world'http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/07/interview-alexandra-jones-centre-for-cities
Centre for Cities chief executive Alexandra Jones says more work needs to be done for UK cities to reach their full potential<p>Alexandra Jones is full of interesting facts. By 2030 the same number of people will be travelling around London every day as during the 2012 Olympics, for instance; or the fact that 67% of money for the troubled families initiative in Manchester comes from local partners - but 80% of the savings go back to Whitehall.</p><p>Clearly, Jones has learned a lot in her three years as chief executive of the Centre for Cities thinktank, whose job is to improve the economic performance of UK cities, and she lists as one of her greatest achievements the<a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/policies/giving-more-power-back-to-cities-through-city-deals" title=""> introduction of city deals</a>.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/07/interview-alexandra-jones-centre-for-cities">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogCitiesFinanceLocal governmentSocietyPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsWed, 07 Aug 2013 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/aug/07/interview-alexandra-jones-centre-for-citiesPaul Swinney/PRAlexandra Jones, chief executive of the Centre for Cities, says there is more work to be done if British cities are to reach their full potential. Photograph: Paul SwinneyPaul Swinney/PRAlexandra Jones, chief executive of the Centre for Cities, says there is more work to be done if British cities are to reach their full potential. Photograph: Paul SwinneySarah Marsh2013-08-07T07:00:00ZCouncils and social media: a desire for digital control still dominateshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/jul/12/councils-social-media-desire-control
It's everyone's responsibility to manage a council's online reputation, not just the business of communications teams<p>Social media isn't so difficult. Follow the basic rules (don't do anything stupid; engage, don't broadcast) and you have a powerful digital communication tool at your fingertips completely free of charge. So why, even when they think they're doing it right, do councils <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/local-government-network/2013/jul/03/councillors-warned-stupid-social-media" title="">keep getting it so wrong</a>?</p><p>At last week's Local Government Association conference, Lincolnshire council opposition leader, Marianne Overton, said that in a time of austerity her council had taken on six staff to manage the local authority's reputation online. Despite addressing the converted – a gathering of councillors and officers waiting to hear BBC experts share their insights into the dark arts of digital communications – her claim prompted an audible intake of breath.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/jul/12/councils-social-media-desire-control">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogFinanceSocial mediaLocal governmentFri, 12 Jul 2013 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/jul/12/councils-social-media-desire-controlOJO Images / Rex FeaturesFollow the basic rules of social media and you have a powerful tool at your fingertips, says Hannah Fearn. Photograph: OJO Images / Rex FeaturesOJO Images / Rex FeaturesFollow the basic rules of social media and you have a powerful tool at your fingertips, says Hannah Fearn. Photograph: OJO Images / Rex FeaturesHannah Fearn2013-07-12T07:00:00ZMayor of Bristol: 'If we're going to save the world, let's have fun doing it'http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/nov/19/mayor-bristol-george-ferguson-first-year
Celebrating his first year on the job, independent mayor George Ferguson is bringing Bristol to the world's attention<p>When Boris Johnson asks George Ferguson why he doesn't join the Conservative party, the mayor of Bristol jokingly replies, &quot;because I am an independent, like you&quot;.</p><p>Ferguson, who today celebrates his one-year anniversary as Bristol's first independent mayor, feels that not being allied to a political party can be an advantage. &quot;There is a lot to be said for independence in local government,&quot; he says.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/nov/19/mayor-bristol-george-ferguson-first-year">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal governmentPublic service reformCitiesLocal governmentPoliticsSocietyFinanceLocal government careersTue, 19 Nov 2013 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/nov/19/mayor-bristol-george-ferguson-first-yearPRGeorge Ferguson says, "If we are going to save the world can we at least have fun doing it."PRGeorge Ferguson says, "If we are going to save the world can we at least have fun doing it."Sarah Marsh2013-11-19T08:00:00ZHomelessness services feel mounting pressure as welfare reform biteshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/dec/19/welfare-reform-homelessness-services-mounting-pressure
UK councils have seen a rise in demand for homelessness services, but there is only so much they can do<p>Those looking for housing in east London this winter will have to join a long waiting list. Since January 2013, Barking &amp; Dagenham council has seen a 60% rise in the number of homeless people seeking council housing, and in the same period the number of visitors to its housing advice office has risen from 1,100 to 1,900.</p><p>Ken Jones, director of housing strategy, who has worked in housing for 34 years, says the challenges at the moment are greater than any he has seen in his working life. &quot;It is an almost perfect storm of conditions created by the insufficient supply of affordable homes, high rents and welfare reforms,&quot; he says, problems the council has little control over.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/dec/19/welfare-reform-homelessness-services-mounting-pressure">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal governmentPublic service reformLocal governmentCitiesHousing NetworkSociety ProfessionalsThu, 19 Dec 2013 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/dec/19/welfare-reform-homelessness-services-mounting-pressureAlamyThe big issue is that there isn't sufficient affordable housing being built, says Tim Hammond. Photograph: AlamyAlamyThe big issue is that there isn't sufficient affordable housing being built, says Tim Hammond. Photograph: AlamySarah Marsh2013-12-19T08:00:00ZBristol pound is just one example of what local currencies can achievehttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/jun/17/bristol-pound-local-currencies
Councils in the UK and around the world are starting to recognise how local currencies keep money in their areas<p>The budgets of local authorities are being cut while the needs of their populations remain the same. In this difficult financial environment, borrowing is rising. UK local authorities owed &pound;81.8bn in the financial year 2011-12, costing hundreds of millions in interest on repayments.</p><p>However, borrowing on the money market is not going to do anything for the local economy. Faced with this reality, some councils are discovering that the use of local currencies offers an alternative to more cuts or debt.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/jun/17/bristol-pound-local-currencies">Continue reading...</a>Public service reformLocal governmentLocal government network blogSocietyPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentMon, 17 Jun 2013 07:01:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/jun/17/bristol-pound-local-currenciesPaul C Stokes/Getty Images/Flickr RFIn Bristol local businesses can pay their rates in local pounds. Photograph: Paul C Stokes/Getty Images/Flickr RFPaul C Stokes/Getty Images/Flickr RFIn Bristol local businesses can pay their rates in local pounds. Photograph: Paul C Stokes/Getty Images/Flickr RFJohn Rogers2013-06-17T07:01:00ZTwo years on, what has the Localism Act achieved?http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/nov/02/localism-act-devolution-uk-local-authorities
Introduced in November 2011, the act does not challenge the deep-rooted centralisation in the UK. Its only achievement has been to show that much more radical devolution is needed<p>When the Localism Act was introduced in 2010, there was much fanfare. It was going to be groundbreaking: the start of a new era and the catalyst by which decision-making powers would be devolved from central government control to individuals and communities.</p><p>But it hasn't exactly worked out that way. The Localism Act has had little effect on the balance of power between local communities and Whitehall, or on the balance of power between central and local government.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/nov/02/localism-act-devolution-uk-local-authorities">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal governmentService deliveryLocal governmentPoliticsSocietyDevolutionSociety ProfessionalsSat, 02 Nov 2013 10:01:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/nov/02/localism-act-devolution-uk-local-authoritiesFrank Baron/GuardianJules Pipe, mayor of Hackney and chair of London Councils, says the Localism Act has failed to live up to all it promised. Photograph: Frank Baron for the GuardianFrank Baron/GuardianJules Pipe, mayor of Hackney and chair of London Councils, says the Localism Act has failed to live up to all it promised. Photograph: Frank Baron for the GuardianJules Pipe2013-11-02T10:01:00ZA local government guide to third sector commissioninghttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/jan/20/live-q-a-local-government-guide-to-third-sector-commissioning
The "big society" reshape means services will increasingly be provided by external organisations but how financially viable is this? Our expert panel comprised of those in the field, are here to help in a live Q&amp;A, Wednesday 26 January, 12pm - 3pm<p>This week David Cameron described the reform of public service delivery as a <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2011/jan/17/critics-public-service-reform-grow-up-cameron">once in a lifetime opportunity</a> to modernise the system, maintaining that citizens are more concerned with the quality of delivery rather than where it comes from.</p><p>Whilst this may indeed be true, it offers no solutions to those in charge of service delivery. Local councils will have to adjust to becoming commissioners rather than deliverers and harness the skills needed to build working relationships with a mixture of third sector organisations.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/jan/20/live-q-a-local-government-guide-to-third-sector-commissioning">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogPublic service reformLocal governmentThu, 20 Jan 2011 15:49:59 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/jan/20/live-q-a-local-government-guide-to-third-sector-commissioningFelix Clay/Felix ClayCharities such as COUI UKA who run Toddlers and Teens sessions at in north London, will play a much larger role in future service delivery. Photograph by Felix ClayFelix Clay for the GuardianA Toddlers and Teens session at Duncombe Primary School, north London, run by the charity COUI UK Photograph: Felix Clay for the GuardianJenny Purt2011-01-20T15:49:59ZLocal government in 2020: challenges and opportunitieshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/apr/11/local-government-2020-challenges-opportunities
How will councils clear the hurdles they face, from scarce resources to making the most of social media?<p>There are a host of challenges that face local government in the 21st century: delivering services; lack of finance; managing staff; engaging citizens; forming new partnerships; and, rapidly evolving technologies and socio-economic demographics.</p><p>So where will we be in 2020? Will we continue to see an <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/guardian-professional/2010/nov/09/sir-howard-bernstein-blog" title="">erosion of council authority</a>, capacity and service delivery? Will markets prove capable of filling the gaps? Or, will we see a reassertion of the importance of local government, with new models for regional integration, public finance and services that emphasise a public role? Here are some of my speculations.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/apr/11/local-government-2020-challenges-opportunities">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogService deliveryFinanceLocal governmentPublic services policySocietyLocal governmentWed, 11 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/apr/11/local-government-2020-challenges-opportunitiesAllstar/BBC/Sportsphoto Ltd./AllstarTime travel: what will local government be like in 2020? Photograph: Allstar/BBC/Sportsphoto Ltd./AllstarAllstar/BBC/Sportsphoto Ltd./AllstarTime travel: what will local government be like in 2020? Photograph: Allstar/BBC/Sportsphoto Ltd./AllstarClaudia Megele2012-04-11T08:00:00ZLive discussion: how to encourage local democratic participationhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/apr/30/live-discussion-democratic-participation
Last year's local elections achieved a turnout of just 33%. How can councils engage residents in local politics? Join us at <strong>midday on Wednesday 1 May</strong> to debate<p>On 2 May local voters will have the opportunity to choose which representatives they want for their area in the 2013 local elections. Conservative candidates will battle to retain gains made in 2009, with votes cast in 27 county councils and seven unitary authorities in England. How many residents will eschew the opportunity to make a difference?</p><p>In 2009 <a href="http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0004/81670/Plymouth-local-elections-report-2009-FINAL.pdf" title="">17.5 million registered voters</a> cast their ballot in county council elections, with an overall turnout of 39%. Local participation appeared to be on the rise, with a recorded turnout of just 35% a year earlier in 2008.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/apr/30/live-discussion-democratic-participation">Continue reading...</a>PoliticsPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentTue, 30 Apr 2013 09:56:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/apr/30/live-discussion-democratic-participationStefan Wermuth/ReutersWomen pass a polling station sign during the London mayoral and assembly elections in London May 3, 2012. REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth (BRITAIN - Tags: POLITICS ELECTIONS)
:rel:d:bm:LM1E8530UCD01 Photograph: Stefan Wermuth/ReutersStefan Wermuth/ReutersWomen pass a polling station sign during the London mayoral and assembly elections in London May 3, 2012. REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth (BRITAIN - Tags: POLITICS ELECTIONS)
:rel:d:bm:LM1E8530UCD01 Photograph: Stefan Wermuth/ReutersSarah Marsh2013-04-30T09:56:00ZLibraries are trusted spaces, but this doesn't mean they have to stay the samehttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/sep/24/library-service-council-space
Although library changes are controversial, there are ways for hard-pressed councils to reinvent the service<p>Libraries are treasured by local people, and any changes to the service can be highly controversial. However, councils face tough financial challenges, forcing a fundamental look at all services.</p><p>To make changes in a way that is sustainable requires careful planning, and while each council's story is different there are some important points to share.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/sep/24/library-service-council-space">Continue reading...</a>Public service reformCitiesLibrariesLocal governmentSocietyPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsTue, 24 Sep 2013 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/sep/24/library-service-council-spaceDarren Staples/REUTERSA new ten story library in Birmingham opened earlier this month. What will libraries look like in the future? Photograph: Darren Staples/REUTERSDarren Staples/REUTERSA new ten story library in Birmingham opened earlier this month. What will libraries look like in the future? Photograph: Darren Staples/REUTERSSue Charteris2013-09-24T07:00:00ZDecentralising power: local areas aim for energy self-sufficiencyhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/feb/10/local-authorities-energy-self-sufficiency
Woking, Stoke-on-Trent and Haringey are just three of the local authorities taking charge of their own energy supplies<br /><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/feb/10/local-energy-councils-debate-self-sufficient">• Join our discussion on local energy this week.</a><p>As fuel prices rocket and climate change sets in, many local areas are taking steps towards energy self-sufficiency. Councils are hoping to reclaim the glory days of the 1870s, when the likes of Joseph Chamberlain, mayor of Birmingham, revived his local economy through the municipalisation of local energy and water.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/feb/10/local-authorities-energy-self-sufficiency">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal governmentService deliveryLocal governmentSocietyMon, 10 Feb 2014 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/feb/10/local-authorities-energy-self-sufficiencyCaro /AlamyA broad alliance of citizens’ groups in the German capital have been campaigning to reclaim Berlin’s energy systems for the people. Photograph: Caro /AlamyCaro /AlamyA broad alliance of citizens’ groups in the German capital have been campaigning to reclaim Berlin’s energy systems for the people. Photograph: Caro /AlamyClare Goff2014-02-10T09:00:00ZTackling fraud in councils – live debatehttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/may/16/tackling-fraud-in-councils-live-debate
Transparency International has warned of a growing risk of corruption in local government. Where are risks of fraud in councils coming from? Join us <strong>29 May 12pm-2pm</strong> to discuss<p>Fraud is a big drain on council finances: the National Fraud Authority has estimated that it costs the country more than &pound;2bn a year. So, how can councils get better at detecting it?</p><p>Councils need to combat a variety of fraudsters, from those trying to defraud councils through unlawful use of social housing to false benefit claims and abuse of council tax discounts. Some impressive work has been done to tackle this, including a project in Stoke-on-Trent called Spot the Cheater. It encourages members of the public to report benefit and council tax fraud, as well as housing tenancy and blue badge fraud.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/may/16/tackling-fraud-in-councils-live-debate">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal governmentPlanningLocal governmentPoliticsSocietyFri, 16 May 2014 09:52:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2014/may/16/tackling-fraud-in-councils-live-debateDirk Ercken /AlamyThe National Fraud Authority has estimated that fraud costs the country more than £2bn a year. Photograph: Dirk Ercken /AlamyDirk Ercken /AlamyThe National Fraud Authority has estimated that fraud costs the country more than £2bn a year. Photograph: Dirk Ercken /AlamySarah Marsh2014-05-16T09:52:01ZHow the 'internet of things' could radically change local governmenthttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/aug/18/internet-of-things-local-government
We are closer than ever to a world where objects communicate with one another, and this presents huge opportunities for local government<p>You can find almost anything online these days – including the vital statistics of cows. A Dutch company called Sparked <a href="http://www.iteuropa.com/news/features/cows-under-cloud" title="">has created</a> a sensor implant that can measure a cow's vital signs, with the data transmitted to a server for access by farmers, who can instantly determine the health of the herd and respond when an animal is sick or pregnant. The animals' movements, eating habits and response to environmental factors can also be monitored.</p><p>It may sound like the stuff of science fiction but these cyber cows are at the forefront of the evolution of the internet. In future, almost anything could be connected to the web via a sensor, radio frequency identification tag or IP address, forming an &quot;<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfEbMV295Kk&amp;feature=player_embedded" title="">Internet of Things</a>&quot; (IoT) that will make today's online world seem archaic in comparison. Fridges, buses and buildings will be able to share data and adapt to suit our needs. In fact, <a href="http://www.psfk.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/ciscoinfographic.jpg" title="">Cisco</a> estimates that the number of &quot;things&quot; connected to the internet has already surpassed the number of people on earth.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/aug/18/internet-of-things-local-government">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkSustainable housingGuardian Government ComputingFrontlineInternet of thingsThu, 18 Aug 2011 07:30:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/aug/18/internet-of-things-local-governmentDavid Moir/REUTERSA Dutch company is linking cows to the internet to track their movements and eating habits. Photograph: David Moir/ReutersDavid Moir/REUTERSA Dutch company is linking cows to the internet to track their movements and eating habits. Photograph: David Moir/REUTERSDuncan Jefferies2011-08-18T07:30:00ZLocal government HR: step up or step outhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/06/local-government-human-resources
Managing staff is more important than ever as a councils go through a period of rapid change. So why is HR at risk of being marginalised?<p>In this time of change, uncertainty and cuts, human resources departments in local government have to make choices about their role and its future. As leaders and chief executives focus on balancing their budgets, members of the HR profession must either step up and demonstrate the value they add to the organisation, or be prepared to step out of the game.</p><p>No local authority can afford to carry overheads or support services that do not contribute to the strategic development of the organisation. All functions should help the council to lead its community and secure effective, efficient services for local people and businesses.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/06/local-government-human-resources">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogLocal government careersLocal governmentTue, 06 Dec 2011 09:35:36 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/06/local-government-human-resourcesOcean/CorbisIs the HR department at risk of being made redundant? Asks John Tizard. Photograph: Ocean/CorbisOcean/CorbisIs the HR department at risk of its own redundancy, asks John Tizard. Photograph: Ocean/CorbisJohn Tizard2011-12-06T09:35:36ZSelect committee publishes planning review – what are your concerns?http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/21/nppf-select-committee-review
The CLG committee has detailed its concerns about changes to planning policy, but what are you most worried about and what do you welcome from the NPPF?<p>The Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG) is expected to publish the final version of its National Planning Policy Framework by April next year. The document will steer local government planning policy for years to come and is expected to see guidance cut from more than 1,000 pages to just 50.</p><p>In response to the draft NPPF, the CLG select committee <a href="http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/commons-select/communities-and-local-government-committee/news/nppf-report-pn-/" title="">today published its own review</a> of the document, claiming the government must make significant changes to protect communities against urban sprawl. The review provides an insight into what local authorities might expect when the government publishes the final version of the framework. Some of the suggestions in the CLG review include:</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/21/nppf-select-committee-review">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogPlanningLocal governmentWed, 21 Dec 2011 09:44:28 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/21/nppf-select-committee-reviewBob Sacha/ Bob Sacha/CorbisThere are concerns about urban sprawl, as seen in America Photograph: Bob Sacha/ Bob Sacha/CorbisBob Sacha/ Bob Sacha/CorbisThere are concerns about urban sprawl, as seen in America Photograph: Bob Sacha/ Bob Sacha/CorbisKate McCann2011-12-21T09:44:28ZQ&amp;A round-up: Making internal communications counthttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/feb/14/local-government-internal-communications-q-a
From the staff notice board to Yammer, via text messaging. Best practice in internal communications is all about knowing what works for your council<p><strong>One size doesn't fit all</strong> Every organisation works differently and has its own culture and personalities. Forcing systems on people and organisations won't work. Be open, transparent, collaborative and cooperative - and use the tools that work for you..</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/feb/14/local-government-internal-communications-q-a">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogLocal governmentMon, 14 Feb 2011 12:10:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/feb/14/local-government-internal-communications-q-aEamonn Mccabe/PRInternal communications should go beyond the staff notice board Photograph: Eamonn MccabeEamonn Mccabe/PRHilary Mantel's notice board for Sat review Photograph: Eamonn MccabeNancy Groves2011-02-14T12:10:00ZTop tips: Managing parks and green spaces despite budget cutshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/jul/09/top-tips-managing-parks-and-green-spaces
Last month we ran a live discussion on managing green space despite dwindling budgets. Here, we share the best ideas from our panel of experts<p><strong>Volunteers require support to manage large spaces:</strong> The size of the site has an impact on how it can be managed by the community. There are thousands of small green spaces managed by volunteers, however complex green spaces would be impossible without professional guidance. We provide a framework for the management of community green spaces and for those involved in the scheme an annual assessment from a professional who helps guide the site. We know how important this is and this would need to be expanded to support volunteers if they were even to consider take on this work.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/jul/09/top-tips-managing-parks-and-green-spaces">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal government network blogService deliveryGreen spaceSat, 09 Jul 2011 09:30:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/jul/09/top-tips-managing-parks-and-green-spacesSarah Lee/GuardianManaging parks and green spaces despite funding cuts - top tips. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianSarah Lee/GuardianManaging parks and green spaces despite funding cuts - top tips. Photograph: Sarah Lee for the GuardianKate McCann2011-07-09T09:30:00ZLocal government bonds would be an boost for investmenthttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/jun/03/local-government-bonds-boost-investment
Allowing local authorities to issue bonds like central government provides an alternative source of finance<p>The attempts of local government to budget and plan future expenditure have long been frustrated by tight centralised control. These fiscal shackles are a legacy of local government's darker days, when rogue councils ran up unsustainable deficits. However, times have now changed and so should the rules.</p><p>It was during the premiership of Margaret Thatcher that control on deficits and lending came into force. Thatcher abolished the Greater London Council, the strategic authority for London, which was later replaced he Greater London Authority (GLA). Her head on clash with Ken Livingston of the Greater London Council embodies this conflict between central and local government.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/jun/03/local-government-bonds-boost-investment">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogFinanceLocal governmentMon, 03 Jun 2013 13:29:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/jun/03/local-government-bonds-boost-investmentAlamyIf local government could issue bonds then they would have more control over the money they spend. Photograph: AlamyAlamyIf local government could issue bonds then they would have more control over the money they spend. Photograph: AlamyMarcus Hobley2013-06-03T13:29:00ZCoastal towns: Britain's forgotten problem areashttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/oct/17/coastal-towns-problems-britain-deprivation-population
Too many seaside towns suffer from deprivation, seasonality and an ageing population<p>&quot;Oh I do like to be beside the seaside….&quot; remains a popular song from the 1900s. So it may come as a shock to find official documents such as a 2007 select committee on communities and local government report highlighting that many coastal areas suffer from high levels of deprivation.</p><p></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/oct/17/coastal-towns-problems-britain-deprivation-population">Continue reading...</a>Service deliverySocietyPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsThu, 17 Oct 2013 09:02:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/oct/17/coastal-towns-problems-britain-deprivation-populationJohn Hill/AlamyA 2013 study reveals Skegness to have deprivation levels around two and a half times the average for England. Photograph: John Hill/AlamyJohn Hill/AlamyA 2013 study reveals Skegness to have deprivation levels around two and a half times the average for England. Photograph: John Hill/AlamyJames Derounian2013-10-17T09:02:00ZGoing online can save high street shopshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/nov/07/high-street-shops-online-independent-retailers
The internet has been cast as the enemy of independent retailers – but it is integral to the survival of the high street<p>The high street is facing its toughest ever battle. Figures from the Local Data Company and British Independent Retailers Association show that town centre chains are in retreat, losing 30 stores a week during the first half of this year. Traditional independent shops are holding their ground, although their future is far from certain.</p><p></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/nov/07/high-street-shops-online-independent-retailers">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal governmentFinanceThu, 07 Nov 2013 09:29:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/nov/07/high-street-shops-online-independent-retailersEyebyte /AlamyUK retailing delivers nearly 10% of all its sales online and an increasing proportion of this comes from mobile devices. Photograph: Eyebyte /AlamyEyebyte /AlamyUK retailing delivers nearly 10% of all its sales online and an increasing proportion of this comes from mobile devices. Photograph: Eyebyte /AlamyTim Lewis2013-11-07T09:29:00ZCouncils turn to arm's-length bodies to save money on public serviceshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/jun/07/local-authorities-almos-public-services
They proved a success for housing. Now local authorities are setting up Almos for leisure facilities, social care and child services<p>Councils that set up arm's length management organisations (Almos) to run their housing have spent much of the past decade debating whether they would be worth keeping once the structure no longer channels through government funding.</p><p>Nine have already been wound up, and others may not survive much longer. Yet elsewhere in local government the Almo is enjoying a second lease of life, as councils under pressure to save money seek an alternative to outsourcing.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/jun/07/local-authorities-almos-public-services">Continue reading...</a>FinanceSocietyLocal governmentPublic services policyLocal governmentThu, 07 Jun 2012 08:38:28 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/jun/07/local-authorities-almos-public-servicesGeoff Caddick/EPACouncils are using arm's-length organisations to manage a range of services, including leisure centres. Photograph: Geoff Caddick/EPAGeoff Caddick/EPACouncils are using arm's-length organisations to manage a range of services, including leisure centres. Photograph: Geoff Caddick/EPANeil Merrick2012-06-07T08:38:28ZWorking lives: life as a local government consultanthttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/oct/15/working-lives-local-government-consultant
A career as a consultant is a rewarding profession, not a stop-gap between more important positions<p>It's still there, that thing that has been keeping you awake at night. Perhaps it's a new government policy that you have to implement. Or efficiency savings that you need to find. Or a problem with one of your partners that you want to resolve. But you just don't know where to start, and you need someone who has seen it and done it already; you need a consultant.</p><p>I have worked as a consultant to local government and other parts of the public sector since I graduated from university 12 years ago. I learned my trade in a large, well-known consultancy firm, before setting up my own practice earlier this year. I truly love my work and cannot see myself ever wanting to do anything else.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/oct/15/working-lives-local-government-consultant">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal government network blogLocal government careersLocal governmentLocal governmentMon, 15 Oct 2012 13:37:58 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/oct/15/working-lives-local-government-consultantGuardianA local government consultant speaks out about why he loves his job Photograph: GuardianGuardianA local government consultant speaks out about why he loves his job Photograph: GuardianSimon Perks2012-10-15T13:37:58ZTalkpoint: what makes a good councillor?http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/oct/23/what-makes-good-councillor-talkpoint
Last week a high profile group of MPs heard evidence on the good, bad and ugly of elected local office. What do you think?<p>Last week the Department for Communities and Local Government select committee held a special hearing on councillors and the community. The influential group of MPs heard evidence from four councillors: Robert Gordon and Stephen Giles-Medhurst, the leader and the opposition leader of Hertfordshire council, and Lucinda Yeadon and Stewart Golton, executive member for adult social care and leader of the Liberal Democrat group at Leeds city council respectively.</p><p>All were asked for their views on what makes a good councillor. What qualities are important in a local representative and – perhaps most importantly – what puts people off standing for local office? Here we round up some of the most interesting comments from the session. Let us know what you think makes a good council member in the comments thread below.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/oct/23/what-makes-good-councillor-talkpoint">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal governmentLocal government network blogLocal politicsLocal governmentTue, 23 Oct 2012 14:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/oct/23/what-makes-good-councillor-talkpointChristopher Thomond/GuardianAudience members listen during a public meeting Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the GuardianChristopher Thomond/GuardianAudience members listen during a public meeting Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the GuardianKate McCann2012-10-23T14:00:00ZLocal government: Margaret Thatcher's 11-year warhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/apr/09/local-government-margaret-thatcher-war-politics
The British prime minister's legacy was increased centralisation and the willingness of her successors to control local democracy<p>Margaret Thatcher's Conservative government presided over an 11-year war between central and local government. Her key characteristics, notably her ideological distaste for the left, meant Labour-controlled councils became an inevitable target for her radicalism.</p><p>Michael Foot's Labour opposition gained control of town halls as the economic policies of the early 1980s started to bite and many Labour council leaders saw themselves as warriors against the Conservative government – she certainly wanted to neutralise them.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/apr/09/local-government-margaret-thatcher-war-politics">Continue reading...</a>Service deliveryLocal government network blogLocal governmentFinanceMargaret ThatcherPoliticsSocietyPublic Leaders NetworkLocal leadershipPolicyLocal governmentTue, 09 Apr 2013 13:11:35 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/apr/09/local-government-margaret-thatcher-war-politicsBrian Seed/Getty ImagesMargaret Thatcher presided over a long war between central and local government. Photograph: Brian Seed/Getty ImagesBrian Seed/Getty ImagesMargaret Thatcher presided over a long war between central and local government. Photograph: Brian Seed/Getty ImagesTony Travers2013-04-09T13:11:35ZLutfur Rahman: Tower Hamlets is not in disarrayhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/may/15/interview-lutfur-rahman-mayor-tower-hamlets
The controversial mayor of Tower Hamlets on the impact of cuts and why he has a chauffeur-driven car<p><strong>What made you want to work in local government?</strong></p><p>Tower Hamlets has been part of my life for a long time; I went to secondary school here, and grew up here with kids from all backgrounds. I have received so much from the area: I am what I am because of Tower Hamlets and what public services contributed to me and my family. My father came here in the 50s and my mother in the late 60s. I am really grateful for the services I have received and I want to give back to a community that has given so much to me.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/may/15/interview-lutfur-rahman-mayor-tower-hamlets">Continue reading...</a>Public service reformLocal government network blogLocal government careersLocal governmentPublic sector careersSocietyPublic Leaders NetworkLocal governmentWed, 15 May 2013 07:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/may/15/interview-lutfur-rahman-mayor-tower-hamletsGraeme Robertson/Graeme RobertsonThe mayor of Tower Hamlets says that full councils should encourage debates.
Photograph: Graeme RobertsonGraeme Robertson/Graeme RobertsonThe mayor of Tower Hamlets says that full councils should encourage debates.
Photograph: Graeme RobertsonSarah Marsh2013-05-15T07:00:00ZLondon's buses: the problem of overcrowding is only going to get worsehttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/oct/31/tfl-london-buses-boris-johnson
As demand grows, mayor Boris Johnson and TfL must improve London buses to ease travel<p>London's iconic red buses rack up an incredible 6m passenger journeys every day, but with the population expected to hit 9.3 billion by 2022, overcrowding is becoming the norm for London's hard-pressed bus commuters.</p><p></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/oct/31/tfl-london-buses-boris-johnson">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal governmentPublic service reformCitiesTransportTransport policyTransportBoris JohnsonSociety ProfessionalsThu, 31 Oct 2013 14:00:02 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2013/oct/31/tfl-london-buses-boris-johnsonFelix ClayDemand for London buses is growing, and mayor Boris Johnson and Transport for London must improve services. Photograph: Felix ClayFelix ClayDemand for London buses is growing, and mayor Boris Johnson and Transport for London must improve services. Photograph: Felix ClayVal Shawcross2013-10-31T14:00:02ZCouncilling: solutions to your local government problemshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2010/nov/25/councilling-solutions-to-your-local-government-problems
Embrace the 'Big society' ideal by sharing your concerns with our experts and the wider community in our open thread. Post your problem and we will direct you to those who can help<p>A problem shared is a problem solved. Given the pace of change in local government at the moment, we can't blame you for being in need of a helping hand. If you've got a conundrum and need some advice, tell us about it here and make the most of our experts. Think of it as a signpost system, directing the problems that worry you most to those who can help provide solutions.</p><p>Post your problem in the comments below (you can do so anonymously if you wish) and we'll try to find someone to help you. Each week we will focus on one problem that we feel requires specific attention, calling on our experts and the community to provide advice and guidance.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2010/nov/25/councilling-solutions-to-your-local-government-problems">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogLocal governmentThu, 25 Nov 2010 15:39:26 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2010/nov/25/councilling-solutions-to-your-local-government-problemsGettyUse our community and experts to point you in the right directionAdam Taylor/Getty ImagesSpotlight on microphone stand on stage Photograph: Adam Taylor/Getty ImagesGuardian Staff2010-11-25T15:39:26ZShould councils be investing in free public Wi-Fi networks?http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/05/councils-free-public-wifi-networks
Two public internet access schemes have been scrapped due to costs and failures, but councils are still battling to offer local networks open to all<p>Wireless internet access is now commonplace in the home and workplace. Yet head out onto the street and you enter a fragmented realm of pay-to-use Wi-Fi hotspots, cafes that grant access in exchange for buying a drink or meal, and a smattering of public buildings with free access online. So why isn't free wireless internet access more widespread?</p><p>Our use of public Wi-Fi hotspots is growing. An Office of National Statistics survey showed 4.9 million people used them in 2010, up from 0.7 million people in 2007. The rapid adoption of smartphones and tablet devices is responsible for much of that growth. Although the majority of these products also have 3G access, connection speeds can be erratic. Downloading or sending files can take an excruciatingly long time, and chomp through monthly data allowances with alarming speed.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/05/councils-free-public-wifi-networks">Continue reading...</a>Service deliveryCitiesLocal governmentMon, 05 Dec 2011 08:50:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/05/councils-free-public-wifi-networksImage Source / Rex Features/Image Source / Rex FeaturesShould councils be providing internet access for all? Photograph: Image Source / Rex FeaturesImage Source / Rex Features/Image Source / Rex FeaturesShould councils be providing internet access for all? Photograph: Image Source / Rex FeaturesDuncan Jefferies2011-12-05T08:50:00ZIs community safety at risk as cash-strapped councils cut CCTV?http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/16/community-safety-risk-councils-cctv
Local authorities are responsible for 80% of city centre CCTV, but slashed budgets mean councils are taking tough decisions<p>Summer's disturbances showed how town centre CCTV can be instrumental in identifying troublemakers to the police. Speaking at a recent conference, Rose Fitzpatrick, deputy assistant commissioner of central operations at the Metropolitan police, said tthey needed, &quot;to work more effectively with local authorities to use imagery such as CCTV systems&quot;.</p><p>There are an estimated 30,000 publicly-owned CCTV cameras in England and Wales, according to joint research carried out this year by the CCTV User Group and Graeme Gerrard, deputy chief constable of Cheshire constabulary.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/16/community-safety-risk-councils-cctv">Continue reading...</a>FinancePublic healthLocal government careersLocal governmentFri, 16 Dec 2011 09:17:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/dec/16/community-safety-risk-councils-cctvGraeme Robertson/Graeme RobertsonBank of CCTV monitors.
Photograph: Graeme RobertsonGraeme Robertson/Graeme RobertsonBank of CCTV monitors.
Photograph: Graeme RobertsonAnita Pati2011-12-16T09:17:00ZEarly years teaching: why it is a job for the boyshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/feb/09/early-years-teaching-job-boys
Only 2% of staff working with the under 5s are male - it's time we had some gender equality, says the CWDC's <strong>Jane Haywood</strong><p>One of the first clear calls from the coalition government for the early years sector was to encourage greater gender equality in the workforce. But with the number of men in the sector staying static at just 2%, it doesn't seem the message is getting through.</p><p>The benefits to reversing this trend are clear. Some young children lack a positive male role model and a male early years worker could provide this.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/feb/09/early-years-teaching-job-boys">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogLocal government careersSocial Care NetworkCareersLocal governmentSociety ProfessionalsWed, 09 Feb 2011 11:33:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/feb/09/early-years-teaching-job-boysChristopher Thomond/GuardianThe Children's Workforce Development Council is calling for more men in the early years sector. Photograph: Christopher ThomondMartin Godwin/GuardianChildren playing in the playground at Pembury primary school in Kent. Photograph: Martin GodwinJane Haywood2011-02-09T11:33:00ZThe future of social work: what our advisory panel thinkshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/mar/15/future-social-work-advisory-panel
Cuts, personalisation and the move to professional status, social workers are used to change. Our experts discuss the positive changes they'd like to see this World Social Work Day<p>The times we are entering will be very tough for local government and communities. However, there will also be significant opportunities for social work to innovate. It is essential that the profession is able to step forward with renewed confidence to meet these challenges. We know that the centrally driven, command and control approach has failed to yield the safe practices it promised and has tended to stifle both creativity and responsibility. Instead we need managers and practitioners, those of us who work in higher education and communities themselves to focus on designing services to meet the needs of human beings in their communities first and foremost.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/mar/15/future-social-work-advisory-panel">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal government network blogSocial Care NetworkSociety ProfessionalsTue, 15 Mar 2011 14:43:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/mar/15/future-social-work-advisory-panelChristopher Furlong/Getty ImagesWill a college of social work bring a new professional standard to the sector? Photograph: Christopher Furlong/Getty ImagesHarriet Minter2011-03-15T14:43:00ZJob hunting made simple. Download our CV and covering letter templateshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/mar/31/cv-covering-letter-templates
Need to know how to write a covering letter? Confused about the best way to layout your CV? Access our helpful guides here<p>Summoning up the motivation to sit down and write your CV or covering letter can be hard. So we've done the work for you. Here we explain how to layout and word your CV for maximum effect. And answer the tricky question of &quot;just what is in a covering letter&quot;? And for those who really can't be bothered, we've provided CV and covering letter templates to get you started.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/mar/31/cv-covering-letter-templates">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkLocal government network blogLocal government careersThu, 31 Mar 2011 08:00:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/mar/31/cv-covering-letter-templatesClare Whitmell2011-03-31T08:00:01ZTop 10: how to run a successful communications strategyhttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/nov/17/top-10-successful-council-communications-strategy
Westminster council's communications strategist Alex Aiken shares his 10 tips to help local authorities connect with residents<p>Your greatest asset is your reputation – your good name. Establishing and maintaining this builds the trust and confidence on which public services depend for their legitimacy. Local government at every level, from councils through to health and fire services, needs to rethink how it approaches communications and service delivery, to build a reputation in a world where people are faced with bewildering technological change and deeply worried about their jobs and incomes.</p><p>1. Councils need to be clear about what they want to be famous for. No organisation can communicate unless it has a clarity of purpose which can be expressed concisely in a way that passes a &quot;pub test&quot;. Can your staff or councillors to explain the purpose of the authority?</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/nov/17/top-10-successful-council-communications-strategy">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogLocal government careersPublic service reformLocal governmentThu, 17 Nov 2011 08:45:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/nov/17/top-10-successful-council-communications-strategyDouglas Miller/Getty ImagesCouncils must do 10 key things to communicate with residents, says Westminster's Alex Aiken. Photograph: Douglas Miller/Getty ImagesDouglas Miller/Getty ImagesCouncils must do 10 key things to communicate with residents, says Westminster's Alex Aiken. Photograph: Douglas Miller/Getty ImagesAlex Aiken2011-11-17T08:45:00ZTop tips: improving local government communicationshttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/nov/19/top-tips-improving-local-government-communications
We've gathered up the best advice from our latest online debate about how to improve local government communications, let us know what you thought in the comment thread below<p><strong>Social media is not the only answer but it does offer powerful new tools:</strong> We have the ability to instantly rebut inaccuracies but that's not to say we should always be on the defensive. Projects like <a href="http://cms.walsall.gov.uk/walsall24.htm" title="">Walsall 24</a> are very proactive initiatives and show the public that we're not just here to empty their bins.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/nov/19/top-tips-improving-local-government-communications">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogLocal government careersLocal governmentSat, 19 Nov 2011 10:29:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/nov/19/top-tips-improving-local-government-communicationsThomas Northcut/Getty ImagesOur panel explain how to improve communications Photograph: Thomas Northcut/Getty ImagesThomas Northcut/Getty ImagesOur panel explain how to improve communications Photograph: Thomas Northcut/Getty ImagesKate McCann2011-11-19T10:29:00ZDoes every child still matter?http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/sep/20/does-every-child-still-matter
As the department of education parks the policy, local government is prepared to hold onto its ethos<p>The coalition government has distanced itself from the rhetoric of what we used to call the Every Childs Matters agenda; a raft of new policies is now occupying the ideological foreground. The Department for Education has refreshed its website removing and archiving <a href="http://www.education.gov.uk/childrenandyoungpeople/sen/earlysupport/esinpractice/a0067409/every-child-matters" title="">ECM content</a> as if it were already a period in the local government history book.</p><p></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/sep/20/does-every-child-still-matter">Continue reading...</a>Local government network blogService deliveryTue, 20 Sep 2011 07:48:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2011/sep/20/does-every-child-still-matterJim Wileman - 07970897005/Jim WilemanDoes every child still matter? Photograph: Jim WilemanJim Wileman - 07970897005/Jim WilemanDoes every child still matter? Photograph: Jim Wileman - 07970897005/Jim WilemanGarath Symonds2011-09-20T07:48:01ZWhat does local democracy mean to you in 2012?http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/aug/22/local-democracy-leaders-views
We asked local government leaders for their views on democracy and engagement. Find out what it means to them and share your comments below<p>What does local democracy mean in 2012? From voter apathy to online engagement, is it still important in our communities, and what should councils be focusing on in the years to come? We asked local government leaders and policymakers to share their vision for local democracy today, and in the future. Share your own views on what democracy means in the comment thread below.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/aug/22/local-democracy-leaders-views">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkSocietyLocal governmentLocal governmentWed, 22 Aug 2012 08:18:07 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/local-government-network/2012/aug/22/local-democracy-leaders-viewsMartin Godwin/Martin GodwinWhat does local democracy mean in 2012? Photograph: Martin GodwinMartin Godwin/Martin GodwinWhat does local democracy mean in 2012? Photograph: Martin GodwinKate McCann2012-08-22T08:18:07Z